Modernising and expanding surface vessel and submarine fleets helps to enhance warfare capabilities, protect territorial waters, secure maritime trade routes and increase regional influence in the face of simmering maritime boundary disputes.

With leading countries undertaking multi-year naval modernisation and procurement drives, the market for naval vessels, including surface combatants and submarines, is set to grow steadily by more than 3% a year during 2022-2032, according to GlobalData’s estimates.

Finding the best suppliers of patrol boats, warships and submarines

Naval Technology has listed some of the leading manufacturers and suppliers of vessels used in naval defence based on its intel, insights and expertise in the sector.

The list includes suppliers of a wide range of vessels, from fast patrol boats to large surface warships and from nuclear-propelled submarines to auxiliary vessels.

The information contained within the download document is useful for naval warfare strategists, naval commanders, senior procurement executives, naval ship technicians, system integrators, maintenance supervisors, and any other individual involved in the acquisition, operation and maintenance of vessels.

The download contains detailed information on the vessel manufacturers and their product lines, alongside contact details to aid your purchasing decision.

Types and uses of military vessels

Naval forces and coast guard units use different special-purpose military vessels that come in different shapes and sizes depending on their capabilities and functions.

The vessels used by navies and maritime law-enforcement agencies include, but are not limited to:

· Frigates, cruisers, and destroyer warships

· Aircraft and guided missile careers

· Corvettes and littoral combat ships (LCSs)

· Auxiliary and support vessels

· Offshore patrol vessels (OPVs)

· Multi-purpose amphibious assault ships

· Nuclear-powered attack and ballistic missile submarines (SSNs/SSBNs)

· Diesel-electric and air-independent propulsion (AIP) submarines (SSKs/SSPs), and

· Midget submarines (SSMs)

Advancements in vessel technology

Modern warships feature stealth design, advanced propulsion and communication systems, and the latest warfighting technology and weaponry to perform a range of maritime missions including deterrence, power projection, and sea command and control.

While research and development are underway for the use of sustainable fuels and energy-efficient ship engines, artificial intelligence (AI), internet of things (IoT), robotics, smart sensors and autonomous control are some of the advanced technologies that will have a transformative impact on naval shipbuilding and modernisation in the years to come.

Download our list here.